Jimmy Kimmel's Uncle Frank Dies at 77

Receive the latest television updates in your inbox

"Uncle Frank" Potenza, former New York City police officer, security guard for "Jimmy Kimmel Live"," and host Jimmy Kimmel's uncle, passed away at the age of 77.

"It is with great sadness that the staff and crew of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' mourn the loss of 'Uncle Frank' Potenza," ABC said in a statement. "He was beloved by his co-workers and considered an uncle to all. His kindness and humor will be missed by everyone he touched."

In Memoriam

Kimmel himself took to Twitter to confirm the sad news.

"Thank you for your kind words about a very kind man -- my Uncle Frank -- who passed away this morning," he wrote.

Kimmel made Potenza a semi-regular part of his show starting in December 2009. In addition to being a former police officer, Potenza once acted as the personal security guard for Frank Sinatra.